James M. Shope

James M Shope, 87 of Shirley, MA died peacefully December 12, 2016 at his home.  He was the husband of the late Naka (Nagasawa) who died May 8, 1999.  Born in Beaver Falls, PA  September 30, 1929 son of the late Walter D.  Hettie (Altemanshofer) Shope.

He spent 20 years in the Army serving 3 tours of duty.  One of his greatest joys was serving in Occupation Japan under General MacArthur and meeting his wife Naka.

He served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars and always praised the military. After his career in the United States Army , he served as the assistant of the ROTC Program at Worcester Poly Tech.

For years he was active coaching baseball, bowling leagues, volleyball games and Boy Scouts. He often carpooled kids to Whalom Park, Mirror Lake and Fenway enjoying a good cigar along the way.

He loved his wife of almost fifty years, his family, playing 36 rounds of golf at the former Fort Deven’s Golf Club, running marathons, German beer and German music and storytelling.

He was a generous and kind and loving man who will be missed by all.

He is survived by his son James M. Shope  Jr. Sterling MA, his daughter Mary Slivinski Nashua NH, six grandchildren Jim Shope Shirley MA, Tara Cranston Leominster MA, Jennifer Churbuck Bedford NH, Linda Tharrington Londonderry NH, Michelle Lepage Worcester MA and Michael Shope Worcester MA., eleven great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.  He was also the father of the late Robert M and John D. Shope.

Relatives and Friends are invited to celebrate his life on January 7, 2017 at the Phoenix Club 4 Ayer Rd. Shirley, MA at 2 pm. Arrangements by  McGAFFIGAN Funeral Home 37 Main St. Pepperell, Ma. please  www.mcgaffiganfuneral.com